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Jenna sets standard for USC interns
A perfect performance by a marketing student as the University of the Sunshine Coast’s first intern at a major shopping centre is set to inspire similar collaborations.
Jenna Cannon, who is in her third year of a USC public relations degree majoring in marketing, was an intern at Kawana Shoppingworld every Thursday for 12 weeks earlier this year.
“She was brilliant. She was an extremely quick learner and I wish we still had her,” said Brooke Neylan, marketing manager at the Mirvac-owned complex.
She said Jenna’s outstanding professionalism, skills, work ethic and personality had been sorely missed since the internship finished.
On an evaluation form, the Mooloolaba 21-year-old scored 10 out of 10 for every aspect of her performance, gaining comments like “Jenna’s ability is second to none.”
“From the first day, she made the most of any job she was given and showed such great initiative,” Ms Neylan said.
A delighted Jenna described the experience as invaluable in terms of her degree and future job prospects.
“It was so beneficial because I could put all the theory I’ve learned into practice,” she said. “I’d recommend other students go for business internships.”
Highlights for Jenna included helping organise an in-store appearance by the Melbourne Storm rugby league team and a community-based art competition involving primary school students.
Ms Neylan said the shopping centre had sought more information from USC about further internships and research projects.
“We definitely want to extend our relationship with the University, including keeping their students in mind for job opportunities,” she said.
USC Marketing Lecturer Wendy Spinks said Kawana Shoppingworld had offered a wonderful learning opportunity for an enthusiastic student.
“We like to get USC students working with outside organisations so they have that real-world experience,” Ms Spinks said.
“They have to report back on their experience and the employer actually contributes to their grading in that course.”
– Julie Gatehouse